Top Euro American Crayfishes Not Elsewhere Included Fishing Countries

Euro American crayfishes, notably species like the signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) and the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), have become significant in both commercial and recreational fisheries across various countries outside their native ranges. Originally native to North America, these crayfish have been introduced to numerous European countries—including Sweden, Finland, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy—where they are now widely harvested. The fishing industry for these crayfishes is characterized by both wild capture and aquaculture, with countries like Spain and Italy leading in commercial production, often supplying local markets and gourmet restaurants. In Scandinavia, crayfish parties and traditional consumption drive seasonal recreational fisheries. The adaptability and rapid reproduction of these species have made them both valuable economically and problematic ecologically, as they often outcompete native crayfish and impact local ecosystems.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.